According to AS, Brian Fariñas, Cubarsi, Gerard Martín, and Cancelo will have to contain an Atletico Madrid team that excels at exploiting space behind the defense.
Atletico Madrid is by no means an ordinary opponent. This is especially true for Barcelona's defense, which is almost experimental. Barca is expected to field this backline at the Metropolitano, as these four have only played one game together (against Aston Villa). Brian Fariñas, Cubarsi, Gerard Martín, and Cancelo are highly likely to form Barcelona's last line of defense against Giuliano Simeone's team.
They will have to contend with one of the Rojiblancos' biggest threats: exploiting space behind the defensive line. Last season, Atletico already punished Barca effectively in the Copa del Rey and the Champions League. Barca is affected by defensive injuries in this match. Although some injured players (Eric Garcia, Kounde, or Christensen) might return, Flick is unlikely to start them.
Therefore, the German coach can only rely on a defense with very little room for error. This defense just ended an embarrassing streak of conceding in 18 consecutive Champions League matches and comes into this game with extra confidence. Flick's system is well-known and does not appear to be changing.
He will continue to push the defensive line high, implement aggressive pressing, and try to keep the entire team in the opponent's half. Giuliano Simeone's Atletico Madrid will also be no surprise; they are fully capable of punishing any misplaced pass; for them, possession is not the most important thing. Atletico only needs to wait patiently, find the right moment to accelerate, and use the space ahead to deliver the ball to the forwards.
Cubarsi and Gerard Martín must maintain high coordination, while Brian Fariñas and Cancelo must control their attacking runs and take responsibility when tracking back. Atletico Madrid has scored 22 goals in LaLiga this season, far fewer than Barcelona's 46 goals, but the attacking prowess of their forwards should not be underestimated. Álex Baena, Giuliano Simeone, and Lookman occupy the wings, while Alvarez, Sørloth, and Jonathan David play centrally.
In addition, they have deep full-backs like Llorente and Grimaldo. Containing Atletico Madrid is not only a test for the defenders but also for Barca's entire defensive system. The team must press collaboratively, with the midfield and forwards also participating in transitional defense.
Wder
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Can’t wait to see